I haven’t been writing here at all, as my one follower (okay, maybe I have two or three) will note, but I figured I may as well try to post something positive tonight … for no good reason, really.

This week I have been back on stage with Symphony San Jose. I played only English horn, which I’d not done for a while now (I can’t actually remember my last concert!). We did American In Paris, Copland’s Piano Concerto (which was new to me and I really liked it, contrary to my colleagues!), and Bolero. (The rest of the group also did Rhapsody in Blue, but I am not needed on that). Jon Nakamatsu, a favorite of mine, played both of the piano works. For my own playing, I really didn’t know what to expect. I frequently feel as if I have to get what one might call “sea legs” although I prefer to call them “stage legs” and it often takes some time. But with a few good reeds, and music I can connect with, I was pleased with the performances. It felt good!

Now that is NOT to say it started out feeling great. This is something we all have to accept: first rehearsals can be troubling, as we aren’t yet comfortable with what we are doing. Especially when a group only gets together somewhat infrequently. It’s even more difficult when one is also having to deal with a hearing problem. So when I was done with the first rehearsal I was just a bit unsteady. But one must muddle through the tough stuff and eventually things began to feel right.

English horn is my first love. It always will be. I feel as if I can relate to it so well.

So I had a good week. I was happy with my playing. (I SO rarely say that!) And I’m glad I was able to get back up in the saddle.

Or at least get back on the stage!

Next up for me is La Bohème with Opera San José and I am, once again, on English horn. I’ve played principal oboe on that opera. I’ve also played a book that combines things so only one oboist doubling on English horn is needed. And ages ago I did play the English horn book. It’ll be fun to get back to the simplicity of that part!